[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":-1},["ShallowReactive",2],{"origin-apocalypse-i-built-an-infinite-train":3,"chapter-apocalypse-i-built-an-infinite-train-apocalypse-i-built-an-infinite-train-chapter-273":6,"glossary-terms-4414":23},{"origin":4,"title":5},"chinese","Apocalypse: I Built an Infinite Train",{"chapter":7,"nextChapterSlug":19,"prevChapterSlug":20,"totalChapters":21,"novelImage":22},{"id":8,"novel_id":9,"title":10,"slug":11,"index":12,"content":13,"wordcount":14,"created_at":15,"updated_at":15,"volume":16,"translator":17,"content_hash":18},2262037,4414,"Chapter 273: Psychic Detection (10,000 Explosions)","apocalypse-i-built-an-infinite-train-chapter-273",273,"\u003Cp>Not long after, Ding Junyi finished dressing and stepped down from the vehicle with her computer, while Chen Sixuan carried the Hellfire Black Chrysanthemum down.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The research team members, upon seeing the strange black plant, immediately gathered around it and began conversing with Ding Junyi.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Hellfire Black Chrysanthemum was then carefully escorted onto the vehicle by Guo Sicheng and others, while Ding Junyi gave Lin Xian a brief nod before boarding the research team’s vehicle.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Protect it well—return immediately and begin arranging experiments; summon everyone who can help!” Professor Guo’s aged face showed no trace of fatigue, only excitement and fervor—he began organizing even before stepping into the vehicle.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Yu also came over to thank Lin Xian: “Captain Lin, I don’t even know how to thank you—you not only saved our team but also chose to support Phoenix Society’s work. All I can say is thank you; if we escape this Frozen Vortex, I’ll petition my superiors—your ability might offer a different solution to our Emperor Project.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Don’t mention it.” Lin Xian’s impression of Yu Yu had improved; though, as Kiki said, he was overly scholarly, his actions just now had earned Lin Xian’s respect.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Setting aside prejudice at a critical moment to choose cooperation—that kind of magnanimity was not ordinary, and precisely why Lin Xian admired these scientists.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At this point, everyone had boarded the vehicle, except Wei Kexue, who stood in the snowstorm frantically rummaging in his pocket. He then walked over to Lin Xian, who noticed Wei Kexue pulling out a black iron box. He removed his gloves, blew warm air onto his hands, and carefully opened it—inside, three Grade One Blood Essences rolled slowly. He held out the box to Lin Xian, smiling awkwardly:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Professor Guo is a traditional academic—he doesn’t understand power struggles, only speaks of grand virtue. I know this plague plant is vital to you; perhaps after research succeeds, Phoenix Society will reward you. But our research team has nothing to offer now—this is just a small token from our group, please don’t refuse. These next two days, we won’t waste a single moment—we won’t betray your trust.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lin Xian saw Wei Kexue’s haggard face and knew collecting these must have been extremely difficult. He pushed the box back gently: “Since I chose to cooperate with Phoenix Society, I trust you. No need to speak of rewards—just hope you make discoveries soon. That’s the real help to all survivors.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Upon hearing this, Wei Kexue’s smile slowly faded. He lowered his gaze to the iron box.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Actually, my teacher proposed this theory long ago. At first, I didn’t support him—not just me, many others refused to believe it, or rather, dared not believe it…”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Afraid to face the Dark Beings?” Lin Xian said.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Wei Kexue spoke gravely: “For survivors, yes. For Phoenix Society’s leadership, not entirely.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lin Xian’s gaze sharpened.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“If the Dark Beings’ attack pattern relies on marking—treating humans like bonfires or lighthouses in the dark to pinpoint targets—it implies Phoenix Society’s Dawn Pursuit plan is inherently riskier.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lin Xian countered: “So the Federation’s defensive strategy is correct? Without sunlight, humans can’t survive long. It’s just a matter of long suffering versus short suffering—what’s the point of self-deception?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Wei Kexue sighed helplessly: “I know. We all know. But ordinary people think little. More importantly, I don’t think it’s about taking sides—it’s that this theory could fundamentally alter human survival patterns.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He looked up at Lin Xian: “If proven, it means forcing these survivors—who barely made it—to actively seek out Dark Beings and fight. Put bluntly, it means sending people to die.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lin Xian fell silent.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“No investigation, no right to speak. That leader was right.” Wei Kexue mused: “Whether as a scientist or as a post-apocalyptic leader, we must gather concrete evidence for this dangerous theory—or we risk accelerating humanity’s extinction.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lin Xian looked at him: “What exactly did you encounter on the Wei River?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Hearing Lin Xian’s question, Wei Kexue shuddered involuntarily. His expression twisted in agony, his lips trembling unnaturally.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“The marking… reached a certain threshold.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“A certain fatal threshold.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At these words, Lin Xian felt every hair on his body stand on end.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Wei Kexue’s eyes were filled with pain and struggle, as if he dared not recall: “Only then did I begin to confirm my teacher’s theory. I repeatedly told Team Leader Bai Shuang—we felt our nightly death pressure rising. But everyone then believed we were about to rendezvous with the main support unit.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Just… one more dawn away…”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lin Xian fell silent, finally understanding what Wei Kexue had endured.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Though they escaped successfully from the Ascending Elevator, they faced a Level 5 Mark.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Infinite Train barely escaped in Rain Town—after discovering the mark, it suppressed the Dark Marking using a territorial parasitic monster. Otherwise, the entire train wouldn’t have survived that night.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But other survivors weren’t so lucky—like the fireline convoy they encountered, annihilated, not even a body found.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As for other survivor convoys from Yubei Airport, apart from Longshan No. 1, none have been seen—Xu Jin, Old Mo, Jiang Yun, and even Jian Xuxi’s Silver Star Train…\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“So this…” Wei Kexue brushed the snow off the iron box and pushed it again toward Lin Xian: “I can’t use it. Consider it me repaying a debt—take it.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lin Xian reached out and took it, stared at the three Blood Essences inside, exhaled slowly, and nodded: “Alright. Thank you.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Seeing Lin Xian accept it, Wei Kexue breathed a slight sigh of relief, his eyes brightening slightly: “Then we’ll head back. If you need us, find us at West Lan University on Zhongyangdajie—we’ve temporarily borrowed a lab there.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lin Xian nodded. Wei Kexue boarded the vehicle, and the group departed in a flurry.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Watching the research team and Emperor Project vehicles vanish into the snow, Chen Sixuan walked up to Lin Xian: “This Dark Marking seems far more troublesome than we thought. But how could that Foundation make such an advanced judgment?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lin Xian sighed: “Forget the Foundation—we still don’t know their origins. As for Phoenix Society, this is how official institutions operate. Wei Kexue was right: every move they make, every policy they advocate, could affect all survivors worldwide.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Take the Nightwalkers’ claim that vegetable juice suppresses Dark Infiltration. But what if unscrupulous people substitute unknown toxic weeds? In this apocalypse, with no testing equipment, desperate people might fall for it. And Phoenix Society can’t even identify which substance in the juice neutralizes the toxin—they certainly won’t promote it as a solution.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“True.” Chen Sixuan nodded: “Ordinary people have weak judgment. At life-or-death moments, they’re even more easily misled by false information. I understand that.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Even something as simple as vegetable juice is this problematic. So without irrefutable proof, Phoenix Society won’t officially release the Dark Marking theory—it’s far more consequential than vegetable juice. Their caution is understandable. Most importantly, even if confirmed, they must find a way to observe it. Otherwise, it’s meaningless. Survivors may accept the theory, but if they don’t know whether they’re marked or at what level, they can’t act accurately. You can’t just attack every Strange Entity. We have Hellfire Black Chrysanthemum; others don’t. Without detection, the theory might as well not exist.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I understand.” Chen Sixuan said: “I hope they reach results soon.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At this moment, the lights in the Infinite Train’s living carriages flickered on. Chen Sixuan noticed and said: “Many are awake. You’ve been up all night—eat something first, then organize everyone to prepare the train.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lin Xian nodded: “Alright. There’s plenty to do once daylight comes.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Inside the Infinite Train, crew members began waking one by one. The living car was filled with vibrant energy. Many sighed in relief; soon, sounds of washing and exercise echoed frequently.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Kiki had slept well. When she opened her eyes, it was nearly ten. Shasha squatted by her window, holding a bowl of hot soup, blowing on it gently as she watched her.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Sis Kiki, you’re the last one awake. Never seen you sleep this long.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Kiki sat up sharply, glanced at the soup in Shasha’s hands, then at her: “Where’s Brother Lin?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Shasha nodded toward the window: “He’s helping install armor plates. He said after sunrise, we’re all going to Phoenix Society for psychic testing, then trade for supplies, and we can have free time this afternoon~”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Hearing this, Kiki felt a small pang of worry—Lin Xian had worked all night.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Move aside, move aside~”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She shot out instantly toward the restroom, ready to wash up immediately.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But she moved too fast—nearly slammed into the ceiling. Startled, she instinctively activated her psychic shield—*thud!*—she bounced off and landed hard on the floor, crying out in pain.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Sis Kiki, what are you doing?” Shasha stared in shock at her destructive motion: “You trying to punch through the roof?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Kiki stood up, rubbing her buttocks, staring at her hands with a strange expression, muttering to herself:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Why do I feel my psychic power has strengthened? Is it because I rested too well?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lin Xian, on the roof, heard the noise and opened the hatch of Car 2, seeing Kiki below: “What are you doing?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I-I-I’m fine!” Seeing Lin Xian, Kiki scrambled into the restroom like a startled rabbit.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lin Xian looked at Shasha with a puzzled expression. Shasha shrugged helplessly, indicating she had no idea what happened.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>…\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In the temporary repair “workshop” at the freight station, the new Infinite Train armor was being installed piece by piece. The old right-side armor had been fully removed, revealing the scarred interior chassis.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lin Xian used his mechanical ability to repair all damage. The new armor included cushioning liners—not only enhancing protection but also providing some insulation.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Cranes operated continuously as the entire Infinite Train was clad in sleek silver-black armor.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The exterior now used modular mounting frames. Since these armor plates were manufactured as single units, if damaged, he could simply fabricate replacements and bolt them on directly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At 11:20, the sound of welding and assembly deafened the workshop. At that moment, the black veil overhead rapidly receded, and the entire West Lan City was suddenly bathed in dazzling sunlight.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The night’s snowstorm had ceased. A warmth pierced through the Frozen Vortex’s cracks, spilling across the land, making West Lan City, buried under snow, feel as if dawn had broken.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Those unloading armor plates on the Infinite Train and those who had labored all night on Longshan No. 1 all instantly felt warmth and comfort rise—temperature seemed to have climbed slightly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Instantly, everyone shielded their eyes and looked skyward—at the long-missed dawn.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Fenglan Mountain in the distance became clearer, mist clinging to its mid-slopes.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Though dark hours grew longer, each sunrise still brought survivors a sense that life was worth living.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Dawn has come…”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lin Xian stood on the roof. The right-wing armor plates weren’t fully installed yet, but he planned to use daylight to complete the psychic testing. West Lan City had many convoys—he intended to visit them, make connections, acquire weapons, ammunition, or blueprints, and use this chance to upgrade the train properly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The remaining installation work would be left to other crew members. The left-wing armor plates? He’d have to wait until after handling Phoenix Society’s business to return and install them.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Captain Lin.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Shu Qin walked over: “Do we non-psychics have to go too?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Yes.” Lin Xian nodded: “The Nightwalkers are studying gene-evolved individuals almost as much as psychics. Evolved individuals make up the majority—they hold great potential. We can’t miss any chance to understand this evolution—it’ll greatly aid our survival.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Shu Qin nodded: “Alright. Should we assign more people to guard the train?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“No need.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lin Xian pointed to the dozen or so people installing armor: “They’re enough. I’ve already informed Captain Shi. Hundreds on Longshan No. 1 will watch over us.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Core members—Da Lou, Shasha, Kiki, Lu Xingchen, Chen Sixuan, Miao Lu, Lu Chang, Xiao Yuan—all would go. Director Ding couldn’t attend—she was temporarily stationed at Phoenix Society’s research facility. Lin Xian had no plans to develop Ding Junyi’s ability either: first, her ability hadn’t yet revealed its growth path; second, it was too mysterious—he feared attracting unwanted attention. His mechanical ability had already made the Infinite Train a target for Phoenix Society and even the Descent Faction. Under these circumstances, he had no need to create further complications.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“It’s great—everyone’s like going on a trip.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Shasha stepped out from the crowd, her face bright with excitement. After so long on the run, such a peaceful, sunny moment was rare.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Kiki hovered in the air, eyes closed, basking in the sunlight, utterly relaxed: “Mmm~ No ugly zombies, no bugs, no monsters—so comfortable~”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lu Xingchen coolly donned sunglasses, skipped the cold-weather suit, and wore a bright red stylish hoodie. He was dressed the least of everyone—standing out sharply among the thickly clad. As a fire-type psychic, his cold resistance was clearly superior—but to those unaware, he looked like a fool in -50°C weather wearing a hoodie.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Shu Qin and Chen Sixuan were fully armored in powered suits, looking sharp and formidable.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Miao Lu and Lu Chang followed behind.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Xiao Yuan, participating in a core team mission for the first time, was thrilled, trailing behind the group with eager eyes fixed on the figure ahead.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She was a gene-evolved individual, though her abilities weren’t yet outstanding—yet she could already fight independently.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Brother Lin.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At this moment, from Longshan No. 1, Shi Di, Ningjing, Lu Yong, Abai, Xiaoqing, and dozens of psychics and enhanced individuals descended from the train.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“So many?” Lin Xian exclaimed, impressed by the combat force.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Not many, not many.” Shi Di waved his hand: “At least a hundred or two hundred on the train are showing signs of gene evolution. I only picked those with clear potential. Besides testing, I want everyone to see the world—opportunities like this are rare. Who knows if we’ll ever see so many again?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lu Yong, Longshan No. 1’s Third Squad Leader, said with a touch of resignation: “We’re a large group, face greater pressure during crises, so Brother Shi picked more people—let them learn from other convoys.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Also, it’s good to show strength—to make those trying to poach our people think twice.” Shi Di cleared his throat loudly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lin Xian understood, secretly amused. Last night, this guy claimed he didn’t care if others poached his people—yet here he was, bringing a whole squad of elites. Clearly still cared about face.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“By the way.” Shi Di knew Lin Xian had been entrusted by Mo Nika: “You’re going to fix that girl Mo’s vehicle later, right? I’ll come with you—take a look at her Apocalypse Shuttle. Maybe pick up some modification ideas.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Whose vehicle are you fixing?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Hearing Shi Di, Kiki curiously drifted over.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“A friend of Qian Dele’s—same as us, uses a train vehicle. But her train’s interesting.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lin Xian briefly recounted what happened last night.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Whoa, a 2-billion Endurance Fortress? Sounds awesome.” Kiki’s eyes lit up: “We’ve got to go see it.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At that moment, Shi Di leaned in and whispered to Lin Xian: “If Monica wants to join your convoy, you’d better investigate her thoroughly. Yesterday I heard Qian Dele say her team isn’t made up of entirely trustworthy people.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I don’t let just anyone join my team,” Lin Xian smiled, then added: “Besides, her 2-billion Endurance Train is far more impressive than mine. She was just flattering me.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Hahaha, clever~”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Shi Di spoke bluntly, clapping Lin Xian on the shoulder. “By the way,” Xiang Ningjing stepped forward and said to Lin Xian: “Bai Bai reported something to me. After the horde retreated yesterday, he saw a monster in the blizzard—but he’s not sure what it was, since none of us have the mark you mentioned.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lin Xian blinked in surprise: “Bai Bai can see the Dark Mark?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“He always described it as the monster’s lingering aura. Now it seems it’s the same thing you’re talking about.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lin Xian stared at Bai Bai in astonishment. He hadn’t expected a blind psychic to sense the Dark Mark’s presence—apparently, Hell’s Black Chrysanthemum wasn’t the only case.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“The monster… appeared for just a moment, then vanished.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Bai Bai, standing at the front of the crowd, whispered: “But I felt an incredibly terrifying presence.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lin Xian asked: “A Deep Worm?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“No.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Bai Bai shook his head: “Worse than that.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Hearing this, Lin Xian and the others turned pale. He exchanged glances with Xiang Ningjing and Shi Di—each saw the same suspicion in the others’ eyes.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>S-rank anomaly?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“The Emperor Project’s goal in the Palma Grassland was exactly this. Its appearance isn’t surprising—we’ve encountered S-rank anomalies before,” Shi Di said gravely. “We’ll deal with it as it comes. I’ve already alerted the Phoenix Society. Stay alert.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lin Xian fell silent, puzzled: why hadn’t anyone on their train received a Dark Mark after an S-rank anomaly appeared?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Hell’s Black Chrysanthemum showed no reaction either.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But from Xiang Ningjing and Shi Di’s reactions, they clearly had no doubt about Bai Bai’s ability—this made Lin Xian’s heart grow heavy.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Let’s go. First, negotiate with the Nightwalkers. Today’s a busy day for psychic assessments—there’ll probably be a long line.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Shi Di said nothing more, waved his hand, and ten large vehicles rolled down from Longshan No. 1.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Let’s go too.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lin Xian also drove his old polar vehicle, and the two groups headed toward the Central Street of Xilan City.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As they entered the main district, more and more convoys camped along the streets or around shopping plazas. Lin Xian’s group was small, trailing behind Longshan No. 1’s convoy.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Many people cast strange glances at Kiki, who hovered above the vehicle. Flight psychics weren’t rare among survivors, but Kiki flew without wings—like a god descending from the sky.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Worse, her purple hair stirred without wind, and her beauty drew countless stares, sparking gossip among many convoys.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Because Longshan No. 1, Infinity, and the Emperor Team had entered the city last night under the largest rescue operation ever launched by the Seventh Investigative Corps, their convoys had drawn the entire city’s attention within hours. Many convoys speculated what kind of force warranted such a massive Phoenix Society escort—but the Emperor Project was classified, so all suspicion fell on Infinity, Longshan No. 1, and Joker.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Xilan City was frozen like a city encased in ice. Skyscrapers glittered with ice crystals. Corpses lay frozen beneath snowdrifts in every alley—monsters rendered harmless by the extreme cold vortex.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As the convoy advanced, Lin Xian noticed many convoys had taken over buildings as temporary camps, parking their vehicles around them. Hotels and malls were especially crowded with large convoys.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Looks like the city’s pretty safe if people can live in these buildings,” Shu Qin remarked.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Regular vehicles can’t compare to our train’s space. Staying cooped up gets oppressive,” Sha Sha agreed. She and Da Lou had once lived in a pickup truck—sleeping was impossible, lying down was hard. Now she had her own bed, a sofa, even a bathroom.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Chen Sixuan nodded, recalling how she’d once been baffled by Lin Xian’s train plan—until she realized, beyond his psychic ability, choosing a train was brilliant. The only problem was the rails.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Now, Longshan No. 1 had a real solution. The idea of a mobile steel fortress was no longer fantasy.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She turned her head to look at Lin Xian, thinking.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Even his old dream of soaring into the clouds… might not be far off.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Survivors in Xilan City clustered mostly along Central Street, because the former Xilan Military Compound had become the Phoenix Society’s headquarters. Survivors built camps around the Phoenix Society’s temporary command center, so the closer to Central Street, the denser the convoys and camps became. Large plazas and parks were packed with vehicles.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lin Xian’s gaze darkened: “Even if it’s about survival, this is too dense. If the outer wall falls, escape routes will be blocked.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“But these people don’t seem worried,” Chen Sixuan said. “With Phoenix Society here, the city must be stable.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Bright light, snowfall ceased. More convoys arrived at the Michel Church, where psychic assessments were held. Besides the convoys that entered with Infinity yesterday, many unfamiliar ones had come—some to cooperate with the Phoenix Society, others just to watch.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The convoy passed a vast central plaza, where hundreds of vehicles stood in perfect rows. The outermost were uniform tracked heavy trucks—over thirty of them. Then came armored vehicles, wheeled infantry carriers, heavy tanks, even anti-aircraft war vehicles and Land Shield close-defense artillery trucks. Behind them stood rows of nine-wheeled cargo trucks and multiple small nuclear-powered energy units.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In the plaza’s center sat a colossal tracked polar vehicle—larger than a train, like a land cruiser!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Beyond it, entire streets were lined with modified combat vehicles, off-roaders, pickups, and more.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The camp layout was orderly, packed with survivors. People moved constantly—repairing vehicles, loading supplies—like a small city.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The scale stunned everyone on the polar vehicle. Had the vehicles not all worn the same tornado paint job, they might have thought it was an Interstellar Corps base.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Is this the Arctic Wind Alliance?!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“What kind of vehicle is that? So awesome!” Lu Chang exclaimed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Kiki, well-traveled, said directly: “That’s a Terrex 300. Self-powered nuclear terrain vehicle. Never seen one? It can even go underwater.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I’ve heard their broadcasts on survivor frequencies before,” Chen Sixuan said. “They’re not just one convoy—they’re cooperating with Phoenix Society branches everywhere, absorbing other convoys, heading toward the Pole after linking up with Dawn Center.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“More than one?” Shu Qin scanned the scene: “Just here, there must be ten thousand people—equivalent to a division.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Most are survivors. Can’t compare to an army,” Lin Xian said coolly. “But once resources are pooled, their firepower far exceeds ordinary medium or large convoys.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Probably many convoys will join them.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Normal. Everyone wants to cling to a big tree. If you won’t risk your life for the Phoenix Society, joining a large convoy is a good alternative. The darker the world, the more people crave unity.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Huo Ge, Lu Xingchen, lay on the roof basking in the sun. Listening, he glanced over and grinned.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Protecting ten thousand people… their leader must be something special.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ice-laced winds howled across Central Street. As the convoy advanced, a grand church came into view. The tallest statue of the Virgin had been converted into a lookout tower; a Phoenix Society radar spun rapidly. Ice spikes hung from the statue’s broken marble robes. The Michel Church’s stained glass glowed with eerie blue under helium lamps. Outside, equipment and base vehicles dotted the plaza. Far off, a large transparent folded curtain had been erected—likely to block or shield some kind of energy.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Survivors grew thicker on the streets. Many weren’t near their own camps—they’d gathered at the church plaza to watch. Bonfires burned in empty oil drums along the roadside, survivors huddled around them. They stared curiously as the convoy passed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Some convoys drove between camps, hauling traded supplies in trucks and pickups.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lin Xian observed the varied survivor camps. Protected by the Phoenix Society and Investigative Corps, these people lacked the tension he’d seen at Hengshan Pass. Convoys here were relatively friendly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The convoy slowed. Ahead, the street filled with people. Several streets near the church were packed with thousands.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Infinity and Longshan No. 1 had no choice but to stop. Everyone got out and walked.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Man, it’s completely jammed!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Tall and broad, Shi Di wore a furry coat and a bear-fur hat, looking every bit a warlord of the apocalypse. He stared at the endless crowd: “Qian Dele and Zhou Lei are right next door. Looks like we’ll be waiting till afternoon.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“So many?” Xiang Ningjing frowned. “Not all here for psychic tests—most are just spectators.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lin Xian’s group joined them. “There are thousands of convoys in this city, tens of thousands of people. Besides spectators, many have ulterior motives.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Kiki crossed her arms: “You make it sound like a talent market.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At this, everyone’s expression turned bizarre…\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“If a horde hits now, everyone’s dead!” Shi Di shouted, staring at the dense crowd around the church plaza.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Not necessarily.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A sharp female voice approached. Everyone turned to see Monica leading a group toward them. Shockingly, her subordinates all wore identical Wolf-A military power armor, blue energy lines glowing—imposing, formidable.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Monica smiled as she approached: “The strongest psychics and enhanced in Xilan City are all concentrated here. Ordinary monsters can’t break through.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Why so many people?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lin Xian asked: “All here for psychic tests?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“No. Today’s numbers are low. Few arrived yesterday, and only you few came late. At most three thousand. So I estimate three or four hundred will be tested today.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Monica scanned Lin Xian and Shi Di’s group of psychics. “Most here are watching you.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Watching us?” Xiang Ningjing asked. “What do you mean?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Monica smiled faintly: “The Seventh Investigative Corps’ massive escort of your convoys last night drew huge attention. Many convoys suspect one of you is a high-level Phoenix Society partner. So as soon as dawn broke, everyone came to see.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Heh!” Shi Di laughed. “I thought we were here for the show—turns out we’re the show! Hah! We’re the center of attention now.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“How long will three or four hundred take?” Kiki floated up, gazing at the plaza center. “Is the test that time-consuming?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Monica’s eyes flickered at Kiki’s flight ability, then said:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Peak tests are quick. But maximum coefficient tests take longer. Three or four hours to finish all three or four hundred.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Shi Di nodded: “Three or four hours? Fine. Won’t delay us.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Let’s go then. Time’s precious,” Lin Xian said firmly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He didn’t want to waste time in line. He could’ve fixed the “Queen Monica”’s faults by now. So many other tasks waited. Every second mattered.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He looked at Monica: “How far is your camp? If the line’s long, I can go help repair the vehicle first.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Monica’s heart leapt, but her expression turned oddly hesitant: “Not far… but…”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She glanced at Lin Xian’s group behind him, as if holding back words.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>For Monica, Lin Xian prioritizing her issue was ideal. But she wondered: she’d warned him yesterday that many convoys were watching this plaza. Today’s crowd was due to last night’s rumors. Why would he leave to fix a vehicle? Didn’t he fear his team’s powerful members being noticed—and poached?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Okay~ After testing, I’ll introduce you to leaders of major convoys. Maybe we can trade what we need,” Monica suppressed her doubt and said to the group.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Good. Let’s not waste time.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Shi Di waved his hand and led the group toward the church plaza.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Monica waved, her tone meaningful: “Good luck.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As the crowd surged forward, more eyes turned toward their procession. People lined the rooftops around them—treating the Phoenix Society’s psychic test like an apocalypse-era entertainment show. Murmurs never ceased.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At the church plaza, heavily armed Investigative Corps soldiers maintained order, setting up cordons. The Phoenix Society had set up multiple checkpoints. Lin Xian’s group approached and saw everyone had to register via iris, vital signs, and palm print. A specialized door-shaped recognition robot scanned and logged data.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Alloy Bullet Convoy, Wang Xiang.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>【Scanning】\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Scan complete. Former Federation citizen, Wang Xiang, origin: Guicheng, Longguo. Citizen ID: cn113284156802. Phoenix Society data synced: Alloy Bullet Convoy, Wang Xiang. New survivor ID registered: d19526633.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Proceed.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The door-robot’s screen swiftly scanned the first man in line. His original citizen data appeared, then was updated and logged into the Phoenix Society system.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Under these circumstances, the Phoenix Society also considered population registration.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Shu Qin said upon seeing this.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“It’s not just about population registration. Those being tested are either psychics or enhanced individuals—they’re likely using big data to study the differences among these psychics, which is far more efficient than investigating each one individually.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Exactly right.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At that moment, a bright voice rang out. Everyone heard a rush of wind slicing through the air, and then Zhou Wuer and Peng Peng descended from high above.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lin Xian noticed then that Zhou Wuer was being carried by Peng Peng—she had no wings, but whirlwinds of wind hovered beneath her feet; her flight seemed to rely on this mechanism.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Captain Lin, I’ve been waiting for you all night. Looks like you were busy last night,” Zhou Wuer said with a grin.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lin Xian nodded, but asked with some surprise: “You test at night too?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Due to safety concerns—we’re worried large fluctuations in Soul-Drain values might cause unnecessary trouble—we usually don’t test at night. But you’re a special case; we invited you specifically, so if you come, testing at night is perfectly fine~” Zhou Wuer replied.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Then why didn’t you tell us sooner…” Kiki crossed her arms: “I was already asleep~”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lin Xian was equally speechless. If he’d known, he’d have come last night and gotten it over with—he could’ve built a PX-05 robot or even an 1130 CIWS in the extra time…\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>(End of Chapter)\u003C\u002Fp>",4804,"2026-06-19T18:20:06.633Z",1,"Qwen3-Next 80B","73860f07025a79fd47b7884533dc094edfbe49857546b0e3232a06ff74dabea2","apocalypse-i-built-an-infinite-train-chapter-274","apocalypse-i-built-an-infinite-train-chapter-272",541,"https:\u002F\u002Fnovelzhen.com\u002Fimages\u002Fcovers\u002Fapocalypse-i-built-an-infinite-train-cover.jpg",{"terms":24},[25,29,33,37,41,45,49,53,57,61,65,69,73,77,81,85,89,93,97,101,105,109,113,117,121,125,129,133,137,141,145,149,153,157,161,165,169,173,177,181,185,189,193,197,201,205,209,213,217,221,225,229,233,237,241,245,249,253,257,261,265,269,273,277,281,285,289,293,297,301,305,309,313,317,321,325,329,333,337,341,345,349,353,357,361,365,369],{"id":26,"raw_term":27,"original_term":28},1801278,"Lin Xian","林現",{"id":30,"raw_term":31,"original_term":32},1801279,"Chen 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